Hermeto Pascoal, the groundbreaking Brazilian composer and multi-instrumentalist renowned for his unique fusion of jazz and traditional Brazilian music, has died at the age of 89. His passing was announced on his Instagram page, where his family shared that he was surrounded by loved ones and fellow musicians at the time of his death. No further details were provided. Born on June 22, 1936, in a rural settlement in Alagoas, Pascoal overcame childhood poverty and the challenges of albinism to become a self-taught musical prodigy. He began his journey at the age of 10, performing at local dances and weddings, and later expanded his repertoire to include forró and other traditional Brazilian styles. In the late 1950s, Pascoal moved to Rio de Janeiro, where he immersed himself in the city’s vibrant jazz scene, performing in nightclubs and joining a radio orchestra. His innovative blend of jazz and Brazilian folk music captivated audiences and earned him collaborations with legendary artists, including singer Elis Regina and percussionist Airto Moreira. Pascoal’s talent also caught the attention of jazz icon Miles Davis, who hailed him as the ‘most important musician on the planet.’ Despite this acclaim, Pascoal rejected being labeled solely as a jazz musician, emphasizing his deep roots in Brazilian genres like chorinho and samba. Over his prolific career, he composed over 2,000 instrumental pieces and continued to arrange and record music well into his 80s. Known for his versatility, Pascoal mastered instruments ranging from piano and flute to saxophone, guitar, and even household objects. His unconventional approach was exemplified in 1976 when he brought live pigs into the studio while recording his debut album, ‘Slaves Mass.’ Pascoal’s family encouraged fans to honor his legacy by letting ‘a single note ring—from an instrument, your voice, or a kettle—and offer it to the universe.’ His death marks the end of an era for Brazilian music, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and boundless creativity.